Honoring Youth: Strengthening Pathways for Lasting Bonds
By Shari McConnell, Regional Technical Assistant
_big.jpg)
As we move into the season of family, gatherings, and gratitude, November invites us to reflect on the many ways families are formed — and the love that connects them. National Adoption Month, celebrated across the nation and in Pennsylvania (Governor Shapiro’s proclamation), offers a special opportunity to celebrate adoptive families, honor the journeys of adopted youth, and raise awareness about the thousands of children still waiting for their forever homes.
National Adoption Day, observed on Saturday, November 22, 2025, marks a day of joy across the country as thousands of adoptions are finalized in courthouses nationwide. Here in Pennsylvania, we celebrate the more than 58,000 children and youth from the foster care system who have found permanency since the inception of the SWAN program in 1992.
Raising Awareness and Celebrating Families
National Adoption Month shines a light on the urgent need for permanency for children in foster care. It’s a time to:
- Share accurate information about adoption in your community.
- Recognize youth and families who have found lasting connections.
- Encourage others to consider fostering or adopting.
OCYF again this year supported agency and coalitions with mini grants for their National Adoption Month events. The SWAN network proudly celebrates this month by hosting events across 45 agencies and collaborations — raising awareness, sharing resources, and honoring families who have opened their hearts and homes. We thank all participating agencies for their dedication to children and families.
As agencies and courts plan and host adoption month celebrations, keep in mind the following resources:
|
National Adoption Month Website |
https://acf.gov/social/national-adoption-month |
|
Adoption Month/Day event planning guidelines and resources from the SWAN Prime Contractor |
|
|
Counseling for families interested in adoption through foster care. Adoptive families may self-refer for SWAN Post-permanency services by calling. |
SWAN Helpline 1-800-585-7926 (SWAN) |
|
Information about foster care and adoption in Pennsylvania, including profiles of waiting children |
A Celebration of Connection
Whether through kinship care, foster care, or adoption, every family’s story is unique — but each one is rooted in hope, resilience, and love. This November, let’s celebrate those stories, support those still waiting, and remember that family isn’t defined by blood, but by heart.